Natural disasters happen without warning, and not having electricity is the last thing you want. A 2000 watt generator, with a half-charge life of 10 to 20 hours, is sufficient to power a house or small office. If a generator has a 10-hour half-charge life, it means you won’t have to get up in the middle of the night if the air conditioner stops working to recharge it. Whether it’s using kitchen appliances, watching TV or working on the computer, a generator gives you comfort in times of need. You can also easily take most of these generators with you when you go camping or on a road trip.

With so many brands contributing to the 2000 watt generators on the market, it’s only fair to review the most popular models, give you a list of the top six and help you choose the one that meets your needs. In our research, we considered the generator’s maximum power and engine power, noise level, fuel tank capacity, warranty and guarantee system, as these features are essential to choosing the right model. You can also have a look at 6 Best Generators for Food Trucks.

We spent a good two days looking at the features and specifications of each of the six 2000-watt generators, as well as expert and customer reviews on the Internet. In this article, you’ll find a summary table of our top picks, a detailed review of each generator on our list (with its pros and cons), and a buying guide to help you make the right choice.

WEN 56200i

WEN’s best-selling model, the WEN 56200i produces clear power that can be used to operate phones, computer, tablets, kitchen appliances and television.

It produces only 51 dBA of noise, which is comparable to the sound of normal conversation suggested by the US Department of Health and Human Services. It is quieter than the sound produced by an average-sized air conditioner, so you won’t be disturbed when hunting, camping or restoring power for a backup. This model can also be used as a small RV generator if you have an adapter for that.

To use the fuel optimally, activate the eco-mode which allows the generator to adjust its own fuel consumption. The generator is equipped with a 12V DC socket, two three-pin 120V sockets and a 5V USB port.

With a half-charge time of only six hours, the generator’s power will only allow you to sleep for six to seven hours. If you think your office or home needs more than 2,000 watts of power, simply connect two generators together using the WEN 56421 parallel connection kit.

The generator weighs only 48 pounds, making it one of the lightest products on our list. The generator panel includes three indicators: low oil, overload and output. WEN offers a two-year limited warranty on this 2000-watt generator model.

Honda EU2200i

Honda is one of the leading names in portable generators. They are masters at integrating inverters into their generators, and the EU2200i is a prime example of their creation.

This user-friendly generator is equipped with the powerful GXR120 engine, known for its low fuel consumption and quiet operation. In fact, the EU2200i is one of the quietest generators you will find on the market.

The unit is equipped with two 120V AC outlets giving 2200 watts and 1800 watts. You also have another 12V 100 watt DC outlet. This combination allows you to run a wide range of appliances and devices such as refrigerators, microwaves, computers, TVs, DVD players and commercial equipment.

The generator comes with a 1 gallon fuel capacity that produces enough power for 8 hours. You can get a peak of 2000 watts for thirty minutes, but you can plug other Honda generators into parallel connections to get more power.

Honda has also made sure to offer low maintenance for this super quiet machine. Even beginners can handle the generator without any problems. There is a large oil tank with a longer spout for easy filling. The large oil drain allows you to fill up easily without making a mess.

The model also comes with a 3-year limited warranty, which is an added bonus.

Yamaha EF2200iS

Like most Yamaha products, the EF2200iS generator is equipped with revolutionary state-of-the-art technology that gives it impressive power and excellent performance. While at first glance you may notice how compact it is, it is surprisingly durable and can withstand countless trips. Because it’s so compact, we weren’t necessarily surprised at how light it was, but we were delighted with how easy it was to carry. The comfortable handles make it easy to carry over long distances without causing chafing or cramping.

The energy is of very high quality, so you can use it freely to power your laptops with built-in microprocessors. The 1.24 gallon tank can run up to 10.5 hours on a quarter charge, which is perfect for fishing trips or day trips to the lake or ocean. The fuel shut-off allows the carburetor to run dry, which also reduces starting problems if you’ve kept it stored all season. Draining the carburetor also allows all the fuel to be drained for even longer storage periods. A resealable vent cap is especially handy for eliminating fuel spills, which is especially important on boats. You’ll also find a fuel level indicator right on the cap, so you can take a quick look and know where you stand.

Although the amount of power provided was certainly substantial for all we needed, if you want more, you can connect two units to double the strength! We will mention the only drawback we could think of, which is that it can be difficult to fill the oil without spilling some, due to the location of the oil spout and the angle of the fill. However, you’ll probably get used to it after several uses.

Westinghouse WGen2000

The Westinghouse WGen2000 is the most powerful of the generators featured in our review. It is equipped with a 212cc OHV engine that produces 2000 watts consistently and reaches a maximum of 2500 watts.

This model has a huge 4-gallon fuel tank that you can fill once and get endless hours of reliable, steady power. The WGen2000 has a range of 16 hours at 50% load, which means you can sleep peacefully without having to get up to refuel!

The generator can even run for up to 20 hours at 25% load.

You can use the generator for a wide range of applications and DIY projects, and even to power tools and equipment on the job site. It has two 120-volt 20-amp outlets for connecting various devices but does not have a DC output.

The Westinghouse WGen2000 is durably constructed with metal rods that protect the fuel tank and overall body. This makes it a bit bulky and overly heavy, but you have to make that trade-off for durability and high power with long run times. It has wheels so you can pull it to where you want it.

You also get a 3-year limited national warranty and lifetime support. Your generator can be serviced at 1,500 service centres. It also comes with a tool kit and user manual and can be assembled in minutes.

All Power America APG3014G

The APG3014G petrol generator produces a peak power of 2,000 watts and an operating power of approximately 1,600 watts. The generator is mounted on a sturdy metal frame.

The tank holds 8 gallons of unleaded gasoline and is easy to fill due to the accessible filler neck. At half load, you can run the generator for 9.5 hours before refueling. A fuel gauge shows the current level.

The air-cooled four-stroke engine needs oil before you can start the generator via the cable. A safety device against lack of oil protects the engine. When the engine is cold, the choke facilitates the starting process. You can connect terminal devices to the two 120-volt outlets. If you are looking for a generator for your country home or small construction sites, this unit from All Power America provides reliable electricity.

The noise level is within the norm. According to its manufacturer, the generator generates 68 decibels. The model is rated differently in customer reviews. In addition to many positive comments, there are also critical comments. Among other things, there are complaints about various deficiencies as well as difficulties when starting the cable.

The device is not suitable for frequent transport as it has no push handles, no carrying handle and no transport rollers. However, it is quite light (55 pounds).

Pulsar PG2000iS

The Pulsar PG2000iS is lightweight at only 47 pounds and one of the most portable generators you’ll find. It has a neat, suitcase-like design with a convenient handle for easy carrying.

As far as specifications go, the generator is equipped with an 80cc engine rated at 1600 watts and peaking at 2000 watts. It is equipped with two 120-volt AC outlets and one 12-volt 8-amp DC outlet. For smartphones and other devices, there is also a 5-volt DC USB outlet.

The PG2000iS has a battery life of 6.3 hours on a half charge, but you can get nearly 8 hours on a low charge. The company says its generator offers quiet performance that won’t disrupt your camping activities or conversations.

It produces about 59 to 61 dB of sound, which is higher than the Honda model. Some customers have also complained that their generators make whining noises and are not as quiet as they had hoped.

The generator is parallel ready and you can connect two PG2000iS using a parallel adapter. This allows you to increase your power output without investing in a bulky generator.

The Pulsar PG2000iS comes with a 1.18 gallon fuel tank that allows it to last a little longer than the Yamaha model.

Advantages and disadvantages of a 2000 watt generator

There are advantages and disadvantages to owning a 2000 watt generator. Let’s explore them a little!
They are perfect for recreational use and you can even have them at home or in the office for emergency situations. All the generators on our list are also ideal for camping or tailgating.
Most generators are equipped with inverter technology, like the Honda EU2000i. This technology automatically controls the engine to produce optimum power without running it at full power all the time.
Most are light and compact. You can carry them easily, like the Pulsar PG2000iS, which is shaped like a suitcase.
Generators in this category also make less noise and don’t disturb your sleep or conversations.
More affordable options for emergency situations or home use.
Cons

Generators may not have enough battery life to last all night, with the exception of models like the Westinghouse WGen2000.

They are not always suitable for commercial applications, unless otherwise stated.
The generators do not have a large fuel capacity – about 1 gallon on average.
Some generators may require time to assemble and instructions should be read carefully.
Important features to consider before buying a 2000 watt generator
Many factors influence your decision to buy a generator, but there are some important features that should be present in your product choice. Let’s look at them:

Engine power

It makes sense that higher engine power means a steady stream of reliable electricity. The Westinghouse WGen2000 has a 212cc engine and the highest capacity in its class.
Models such as the WEN 56200i and the Yamaha EF2200iS have 80 cc engines which are less powerful than the WGen2000. You need to determine the purpose of your generator and then decide how much engine power you need.

If you intend to use the generator for emergency situations, you will not need a high power engine. But if you have high power requirements, it makes sense to go for higher capacity engines.

Rated/maximum output

You should check the power rating of the generator to make sure of the wattage it produces. For example, the Yamaha EF2200iS is rated at 1800 watts while the maximum output is 2200 watts.

In comparison, the All Power America model is rated at 1400 watts with a peak power of 2000 watts. All models have a peak power of 2000 watts, except the Westinghouse WGen2000 which produces 2500 watts at maximum.

1600 to 1800 watts is sufficient for home and recreational use. If you are looking to run large capacity machines or equipment, you will need a high peak power. In general, you won’t be running your generator at full power most of the time, so it’s wise to stick to a medium range.

Fuel tank volume

This is one of the most important features of your generator. Most generators on our list have a fuel capacity of about 1 gallon, which is more or less enough for a night’s sleep.

But if you plan to use your generator for long hours, you should opt for larger capacity tanks.

Noise Level

A normal conversation produces noise levels of 60-70 dB. Most of the generators on our list operate at lower noise levels, not exceeding 60 dB. You can comfortably use any of the generators on our list at home or when camping and carry on conversations without being disturbed.

If you are looking for quieter models, you can opt for the Honda EU2000i. It produces much less noise and stays around 50 dB, which is quiet enough to give you a good night’s sleep.
You can choose generators with a higher noise level if you plan to use them permanently outdoors.

Run time

Runtime is one of the first things you should check when buying a generator. Obviously, generators with longer run times require less refuelling and will provide you with electricity for longer periods.

The running time of your generator will also be affected by the load at which you run it and the capacity of the fuel tank. In our list, the Westinghouse WGen2000 has a runtime of 16 hours when running at 50% load. Any increase in load will result in a decrease in range.

Portability, size and weight

The combination of these three factors – portability, size and weight – will determine the mobility of your generator. If you plan to move around a lot with your generator, it is best to go for lightweight and compact models.

The most portable and compact generator on our list is the Pulsar PG2000iS, which weighs only 47lbs. It also has a practical, suitcase-like design with a handle to carry it anywhere you want.

If your generator will be stationary most of the time, you may want to opt for the heavier models as it will not be moved frequently.

Warranty

It goes without saying that a generator with a longer warranty will be covered against defects and malfunctions for a longer period.

Many models such as the Westinghouse WGen2000, Honda EU2000i and Yamaha EF2200iS have a 3-year limited warranty and you can choose them for peace of mind.

In addition to the warranty, you should also check whether the manufacturer offers free technical support. For example, All Power America’s 2000 watt generator offers free 24-hour technical support, which is really helpful and goes a long way in solving any problems with the product.

Also find out if the manufacturer has service locations in your city or state.

Included accessories

You will find some accessories included with your generator. The first thing to check is that the accessories include everything you need to assemble your generator. If not, you will have to arrange or buy them separately.

Another important accessory is the user manual, which you may need to install the generator or solve common problems. Sometimes the manufacturer also provides additional accessories such as spark plug spanners and spark plugs.

You will also need additional accessories such as parallel cables or DC charging cables, which can be purchased separately if you want to connect two generators.

Our verdict

We’re sure you now have a good idea of which generator you need. So we’ll summarise it for your convenience. If you are looking for a versatile generator, you can choose the WEN 56200i, which has a battery life of 6 hours. It is also the company’s most popular model and is perfect for use at home and in the office.

You can also opt for the Honda EU2000i which is the quietest generator in our ranking. This compact powerhouse provides 1800 watts of electricity for 8 hours and even has good fuel economy.

You can also choose the Yamaha EF2200iS, which can run for 10.5 hours on a half-charge. This model, which benefits from the quality and performance of the Yamaha brand, is ideal for residential or professional use. If you need long battery life and high power, the Westinghouse WGen2000 is for you.